Regenerative Biology and Medicine - Focus Areas
In addition to mandatory lectures, seminars, and practical courses in the first three semesters, you will have the opportunity to choose one of three exciting specializations for your second and third semester. Each focus area consists of two modules that explore a variety of cutting-edge topics, with some overlap between the different focus areas. This structure ensures that you have a comprehensive and enriching academic experience.
Table of contents
Focus Area 1: Developmental and Regenerative Cell Biology (Dr. Tatiana Sandoval-Guzmán)
This focus area provides you with comprehensive knowledge of the central molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the development and regeneration of tissues and organs in key model organisms. You will also gain insight into the state-of-the-art experimental analysis methods associated with these processes. This foundational understanding will enhance your ability to engage with current research and contribute to advancements in the field of regenerative biology.
Module 1: Developmental and Regenerative Biology: Model Organisms (2nd semester)
An Axolotl, a Mexican salamander which can regenerate complex body parts, including full limbs. The Sandoval-Guzmán group at the CMCB investigates limb regeneration in axolotl to understand the molecular mechanisms behind regeneration of complex structures.
As a student, you will master the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms behind tissue and organ development and regeneration. You will gain the ability to explain the intricate biochemical relationships and signaling systems involved in organogenesis and regeneration, empowering you to understand these vital processes deeply. You will also become familiar with key invertebrate and vertebrate models of organogenesis and regeneration, such as Planaria, Drosophila, zebrafish, and axolotl. Additionally, you will explore how these models compare to those with limited regenerative capacity, like mice, which
are often used in translational research.
Module 2: Developmental and Regenerative Biology: Concepts and Methods (3rd semester)
Zebrafish are small tropical fish with the ability to regenerate vital body parts like their fins and nervous system. Several groups at the CMCB study zebrafish to understand the molecular mechanisms of regeneration.
You will gain a deep understanding of both embryonic and adult stem cells across various relevant model organisms, empowering you to appreciate their therapeutic potential. This module will cover essential topics such as the development, tissue differentiation, and regeneration of fins, tails, limbs, and selected organs, providing you with practical insights into regenerative biology. You will also learn the fundamental concepts and applications of live cell and intravital microscopy, along with quantitative fluorescence techniques, enabling you to design and plan experiments that address complex biological problems. Furthermore, you will explore current genomic methods and grasp the theoretical foundations of state-of-the-art genomic tools, equipping you with the skills necessary to navigate and contribute to cutting-edge research in stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine.
Focus Area 2: Regenerative Neurosciences (Prof. Gerd Kempermann / Prof. Catherina Becker)
This focus area provides in-depth knowledge of cellular, molecular, systemic, and regenerative neurosciences and the associated current experimental analysis methods. It also covers clinical concepts of diseases for which neuro-regenerative therapies exist or are in development.
Module 1: Principles of Neuroscience (2nd semester)
A gorilla brain organoid grown by researchers from the Albert lab at the CMCB. Grown from a gorilla’s blood sample, it offers a new avenue to study brain development in primates.
You will gain elementary knowledge of cellular, molecular, and systemic neurobiology, neuropharmacology, behavioral science, and sensory physiology. You will get to know the anatomical and functional basics of the nervous system, the complex networks that arise in neurobiology, and the stimulus reception and processing of various sensory organs. You will become familiar with the brain structure, development, and function, as well as its cellular and molecular elements and physiology.
Module 2: Neurobiology and Regeneration (3rd semester)
A human retina organoid. The light-absorbing photoreceptor cells were labeled in blue and green. CMCB researchers use retina organoids as a model system to study currently incurable vision disorders.
You will master the fundamentals of neuroanatomy, neuropathology, neuroimmunology, and neuroregeneration. You will get an overview of fundamental experimental neurobiological methods including electrophysiology. You will get to know clinically relevant mechanisms used to understand pathophysiologies and their therapies, and become familiar with the clinical concepts of diseases for which neuroregenerative therapies exist or are being developed.
Focus Area 3: Regenerative Medicine (Prof. Karsten Kretschmer / Prof. Jared Sterneckert)
This focus area provides in-depth knowledge of disease pathology and affected organ systems, as well as the clinical concepts of regenerative medicine, including the translation process from bench to bedside.
Module 1: Hematologic, Immunological and Vascular Systems and Disease (2nd semester)
A microscopy image showing blood vessels in the zebrafish retina. The branching pattern of blood vessels is unique to individual zebrafish, offering a powerful model to study vascular development and disease.
You will gain an understanding of the structure and function of organ systems affected in disease, including their development, morphology, and physiology. Key topics include hematopoiesis, oncogenesis, innate and acquired immune defenses, the development of autoimmune, bone, and vascular diseases, and potential regenerative therapies. At the end of the course you will have basic theoretical knowledge of the pathology of diseases and advanced knowledge of the use of cell and tissue regeneration to correct these pathologies. You will get familiar with the clinical concepts of diseases for which regenerative medicine has therapeutic utility, particularly in the areas of hematopoiesis, oncology, autoimmunity, bone biology, and angiology.
Module 2: Peripheral Organ Systems and Disease (3rd semester)
A microscopy image of a zebrafish pancreas. This vital organ is responsible for controlling blood sugar by producing the hormone insulin. In diabetes patients, insulin production is disrupted. CMCB researchers study the molecular mechanisms behind diabetes to better understand the disease and treat it.
This module includes the clinical concepts of diseases for which regenerative medicine has therapeutic utility, particularly in the areas of hepatology, diabetes, neuroregenerative medicine, retinal degeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. You will get familiar with the pathophysiology of diseases, clinical presentations, and current standards of care. You will gain an understanding of current problems and concepts of regenerative approaches, translational aspects, and strategies and tools of regenerative medicine. Additionally, you will get to know the bench-to-bedside translation process, including the conduct of appropriate clinical trials.